When it comes to working out, not any sneaker will do and the following information explains why dance sneakers are important to have and what they should come equipped with in order to meet your needs.There are a few key things that you should know before you go ahead and buy a pair of Zumba dance shoes. First, we will discuss what you should NOT get for shoes for dancing Zumba.
Dance shoes – Yes, Zumba is dance. But branded ‘dance shoes’ have little to no support or cushioning. The majority of Zumba dance moves might hurt if you do not have the correct amount of cushioning, and only real Zumba dance shoes provide the right amount.
Running Shoes – Please stay away from running shoes for Zumba. Running shoes have thick and high grip soles on the bottoms, which are made for running. When running your foot makes the same repetitive movement, and high grip is key. However, in Zumba, that high amount of grip will be your downfall instead of helping you. Nearly all of the Zumba dance moves require your feet to slide and glide on the dance surface and high grip will hinder you greatly.
Too much Grip – The grip we just discussed can have harmful repercussions. If your feet stick to the floor but your body wants them to keep moving, your body weight shifts, and then all of a sudden isn’t supported anymore. This will result in a fall, or worse, a sprained ankle. Rolling your ankle is one of the most excruciatingly painful experiences, not to mention you may not be able to walk for a week or longer.
As you can see, there are reasons why regular shoes or other specialized types are not helpful for Zumba. Let’s explore further and see what makes Zumba dance shoes the right shoe for your favorite exercise.
Comfort – Zumba dance shoes are built to hug your foot and provide comfort when you need it most; when your feet are pounding out the dance moves! Wearing the wrong kind of shoe will result in painful redness on your feet, or even worse, the dreaded blisters. Zumba shoes wick away the sweat and moisture from your feet and help to keep them dry. Blisters in the feet happen when your socks get sweaty and the moisture has nowhere to go! Your socks then stick to the inside of your shoe, instead of being a protective lining for your feet. The skin of your foot then rubs back and forth hundreds (or thousands) of times against your sweaty sock/shoe inside, causing blisters and rash.
Flexibility – a stiff shoe is the worst! Zumba shoes come prepared for dance moves and a foot that moves! Whatever way you need to move your foot, these shoes will allow it.
Support – Different sports need different supports.
